gbrown_nz

Hi all

Great series of posts and very informative.

We've just bought a farm in Haute Savoie. It has an outdated septic 'system' that we have condemned. So basically in the first stage of renovation we will install a new fosse septique system.

My primary question which doesn't seem to have been covered in detail in previous posts, is; what is required for the l'etude géopédologique (soil testing) prior to deciding on the fosse septique to be used?

I understand that its main purpose is to define soil permiability and filtration rates which then determines the required tranchees d'epandage (drain field after the fosse septique.

What exactly does it entail? I know nothing!
- Is there an official body that provides the service with certification?
- Does it require a digger?
- Do they give a recommendation for the size of tranchees d'epandage
- What are the costs? We have been confused with differing costs based on variables such as the soil test itself, diggers etc welcome to France!


Lastly if anyone would like to suggest a fosse system (or general direction for us to start). That would be greatly appreciated.
-180m2 rectangle footprint at ground level, with two levels above (total potential habital 500m2. 2400m2 terrain with house in one corner.
- Separate apartment built at far 1/3 end, 100m2 on 1st and second floor. (2 bathrooms/toilets)
- Main house 400m2. 3 bathrooms 4 toilets.
- Number of people could be 4 in apartment and 4 in main house. Apartment and House under same roof, one building.

Thanks

Hillybilly

Hi, hope you don't mind me popping in from Spain. I know nothing about the rules and regs in France but in general, the site investigation will be required to establish the slope of the land, the make up of the soil (clay/sand/gravel etc), the water table level and you will need percolation tests. This will entail trial pits and probes/boreholes.
This site, although American and hence in Imperial, will give you some further reading material for now!
http://www.extension.umn.edu/distrib...es/DD0797.html

Renauld

AFAIK the soils tests cost around 400 euros. They will bring everything they need including a hand operated core drill to take soil depth samples.

They will look at the slope of the land, it's permeability, the size of property and make a detailed suggestion of what they consider to be the most suitable system for your property.

Ask in your local Mairie - they should be able to give you a list of local companies to provide a soil test.

Once that's done you'll be looking for a digger or reputable company to supply and fit the system. Many Terracement companies fit septic tanks, they're not rocket science and can be done yourselves. However it helps to have digger driving experience, basic plumbing skills and common sense!

stanage2

I know its over a year now and you may not still post.but did you get your fosse in?
Stanage2

laidback.camper

I am new to this. i need to put a fosse into my new french home,can anyone give me a ball park figure as to the cost?

val50

Hi there, welcome to the forum
the subject has been covered quite a bit in the past, such as in this link here
http://britishexpats.com/forum/showthread.php?t=450414
and here
http://britishexpats.com/forum/showt...=450414&page=3

Renauld

A rough figure for a new 3000 liter fosse installation is around 6000 Euros with a sand filter - cheaper if it can have drainage ditches (Diagram of ditch layout can be seen on this page about septic tanks in France